Programme Policy Officer (NOB) - School Feeding

Job Posting Organization:
The World Food Programme (WFP) is the world’s largest humanitarian organization dedicated to saving lives in emergencies and using food assistance to build pathways to peace, stability, and prosperity for people recovering from conflict, disasters, and the impacts of climate change. Established in 1961, WFP operates in over 80 countries, employing thousands of staff members who are committed to the mission of eradicating hunger and improving nutrition. WFP's vision is to create a future where every person has access to the food they need to live a healthy and active life. The organization emphasizes diversity and inclusion, encouraging qualified candidates from all backgrounds to apply, and is recognized for its commitment to equal employment opportunities. WFP was awarded the Nobel Peace Prize in 2020 for its efforts to combat hunger and promote peace in conflict-affected areas.

Job Overview:
The Programme Policy Officer (NOB) will lead the design, implementation, coordination, oversight, evidence generation, and quality assurance of WFP’s School Feeding Programme in Afghanistan. This role is crucial as it directly impacts the education, nutrition, and overall well-being of nearly one million children across ten provinces. The incumbent will work closely with various stakeholders, including Area Offices, cooperating partners, de facto authorities, and internal WFP units, to ensure the effective delivery of the program. The position requires a strategic approach to program management, operational oversight, and stakeholder engagement, ensuring that the School Feeding Programme aligns with WFP's corporate policies and the specific operational context of Afghanistan. The incumbent will also be responsible for managing staff, engaging with authorities, and representing WFP in various forums.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The key accountabilities of the Programme Policy Officer include leading the design and implementation of the School Feeding Programme, ensuring compliance with WFP standards and alignment with corporate policies. The officer will provide technical guidance on feasibility assessments, school feeding models, and integration with other human capital interventions. Responsibilities also include overseeing day-to-day program implementation, providing operational support to field offices, developing operational guidance and training materials, and engaging with de facto authorities and stakeholders. The officer will manage cooperating partner selection, conduct performance reviews, and lead evidence generation efforts, including monitoring systems and operational research. Additionally, the officer will ensure robust risk management and compliance with policies, contribute to resource mobilization efforts, and supervise and mentor the School Feeding team to enhance capacity and performance.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess an advanced university degree in Education, International Affairs, Nutrition/Health, Agriculture, Economics, Social Sciences, Public Policy, Social Protection, or a related field. Alternatively, a first university degree with additional years of relevant professional experience is acceptable. The position requires at least three years of postgraduate professional experience in School Feeding, Education, Nutrition, security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">Food Security, or related sectors. Desired qualifications include 5-7 years of experience in similar roles, particularly in complex or emergency environments, and experience in managing large-scale program operations and working with government entities and education stakeholders. Strong analytical, reporting, and evidence-generation capabilities are essential, along with excellent communication and negotiation skills.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for this position includes an advanced university degree in relevant fields such as Education, International Affairs, Nutrition/Health, Agriculture, Economics, Social Sciences, Public Policy, or Social Protection. A first university degree combined with additional relevant professional experience may also be considered sufficient. The emphasis is on candidates who have a strong academic foundation that supports the responsibilities of the role, particularly in program management and policy development.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of three years of postgraduate professional experience in relevant sectors, with a preference for candidates who have 5-7 years of experience. Experience in managing programs in complex or emergency environments is highly valued, as is experience working with cooperating partners and government entities. Candidates should also have a proven track record of leading teams and managing large-scale program operations, demonstrating their ability to navigate challenges and deliver results in demanding contexts.

Languages:
Fluency in English is mandatory, as it is the working language of WFP. Knowledge of local languages spoken in Afghanistan would be considered an asset, enhancing communication and engagement with local stakeholders and communities. Proficiency in additional languages may also be beneficial, depending on the specific needs of the program and the areas of operation.

Additional Notes:
This position is classified as a National Officer role under the UN Common System. It is a full-time position based in Kabul, Afghanistan, with a focus on the School Feeding Programme. The role involves significant engagement with various stakeholders, including government entities and NGOs, and requires a commitment to WFP's values of integrity, collaboration, commitment, humanity, and inclusion. The organization offers an attractive compensation package, and candidates are encouraged to apply regardless of their background, as WFP is dedicated to fostering an inclusive work environment. The deadline for applications is set for 18 December 2025 at 23:59 GMT+04:30 Afghanistan Time.